After sweeping travel media accolades in 2017, how did Portugal do with American visitors this year? The numbers are impressive so far. If in 2016 the total number of American visitors in Portugal was 391,125 with overnights of 910,751, by October 1, 2017 they had already hit 522,653 visitors with 1,196,923 of overnights, which is 34% higher than last year’s results and four times higher than just 10 years ago.

And, 2017 is not over yet, meaning more guests to Portugal are still to be counted over the next three months. Portugal started 2017 with Travel + Leisure naming it the Editors Pick Destination of the Year.

Tourism growth is a huge boost to the Portuguese economy, with economic growth near the top of the European Union and unemployment at a 9 year low. According to data from the Bank of Portugal, in September 2017, revenues generated by tourism jumped 21.3% in September, reaching 1.6 billion euros. Revenue from US visitors was up 34% for the month over 2016.

Today more and more editors pick Portugal as a must-see country, with Pick Destination of the Year. Fodor’s included the Northern Minho area in their 2017 “Go List.” Condé Nast Traveler said Portugal was one of the places to go in 2017. Lonely Planet named the Azores one of the “world’s best regions to visit in 2017.” And, the Huffington Post declared Portugal “The Country Everybody Will Be Visiting In 2017.”

Geographically, Portugal is closer to the United States than anything else in. Lisbon is Europe’s new “capital of cool.” Portugal is a country of contrasts also boasts some of the most unspoiled natural vistas, the richest traditions, the most intoxicating culture, the most adrenaline-pumping adventures and the most serene retreats in all of Europe. It is a destination of timeless appeal – as inviting, complex and enjoyable as a glass of Port wine.